Capitol legends: The truth behind Minnesota State Capitol myths

The most common question posed to State Capitol tour guides is, “Where’s the bathroom?”

The next most common questions often have to do with some of the myths and legends that endure in the building’s hallowed halls.

From a cow in the House Gallery to skeletons buried in the basement, Brian Pease, historic site manager of the Minnesota State Capitol, has worked for decades to correct the lingering rumors of the place.

While most are unsubstantiated, many feature “little bits and pieces” of fact, tying them further into the discussions of the building’s history and lore, Pease said. He sat down with Session Daily to talk about some of the most repeated myths, how they came to be, and the glimmers of truth that can be found within them.